Kalmar Nyckel Gun Carriage Rehabilitation

Wilmington, DE United States

The Kalmar Nyckel Gun Carriages were in desperate need of rehabilitation, however, as part of a National Historic treasure, the preservationists were very cautious. The components would have to be carefully removed from the ship, documented, and then cleaned of old coatings and heavy corrosion. The preservationists wanted to apply a new coating able to withstand the salt water environment, but did not want to damage the integrity of the original iron pieces.

Ultimately, the historians decided to utilize a duplex system of hot-dip galvanizing and paint. The dual coating represented the best of both worlds – necessary corrosion protection, but similar aesthetic to the original look of the carriages. The iron hinges, carriage straps, cleats, strapping and fasteners were all hot-dip galvanized and top coated with an epoxy/urethane 2-coat paint system. The antique carriages were then reinstalled on the ship, where they will remain corrosion-free and beautiful for generations to come.